A group of young Nelson boxing enthusiasts are set to benefit from the donation of some equipment with a prestigious background.
Twenty boys aged seven to 10 from Victory School have been taking part in two training sessions a week at the YMCA in Victory.
The programme was initiated by YMCA Oscar (Out of School Care and Recreation) manager Marty Grant, and Victory School teacher Paul Hampton, as a way of engaging boys who were in need of some focus and role modelling.
It involves fitness and basic boxing skills, and is supported by Steve Mitchell and the Nelson Boxing Association.
It has been running for five weeks, and has received a boost after a donation of equipment from the home gym of former New Zealand coach, the late Kevin Barry Senior.
The gear has been used by his son, Kevin Barry, an Olympic silver medallist, and was facilitated by Nelson's Barry Galbraith, a former national boxing champion.
"We've got headgear, we've got gloves, we've got skipping ropes," Grant said.
"But I guess the true value in it is that it's got Kevin Barry's sweat in it, and so I've found out, Richie McCaw, and some cricketers and national representatives, who trained under Kevin Barry Snr, have used that gear as well."
The children would write letters of thanks to Kevin Barry Snr's widow, Myra.
Grant said it was important for them to recognise that many people were willing to show an interest and invest in what they are able to do.
Hampton said he had seen a positive change in those who were taking part in the programme.
"I've noticed it in the playground and in their general attitude.
"The kids are coming to school and doing skipping off their own bat, more physical activity.
"It's a great outlet for them, boys need to have a good level of energy, so it's been very, very positive."
- The Nelson Mail
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